By Iyakale Yakubu
Jos (NIGERIA) — Executive Chairman, Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Mathew Sule, says there will no longer be safe haven for contractors who default in the construction and renovation of primary schools in the state.
He gave the warning in an interview with AFRICA PRIME NEWS in Jos.
He said the board had put strategies in place to ensure that terms for project execution were adhered to before payments are made to contractors and those delegated to supervise contracts.
“Since we came on board, we have not given out any project; we have put in strategies to ensure contract conditions are adhered to before we make payments.
“There was a situation recently that I almost approved the payment for a contractor who was not able to complete the job given to him.
“I issued a directive for the audit of that job and found out that it was not done; the technical staff responsible for supervising the job was called to explain the matter.
“He pleaded for pardon, but he will be sanctioned to serve as deterrent to others; it will no longer be business as usual,’’ he said.
Sule alleged that some contractors use substandard materials for their projects thereby reducing the lifespan of the structures.
He said that the board is training teachers in the state to update their skills for effective discharge of their duties.